But donations of tinned food, sacks of vegetables and bread, as well as cash donations, saved the day.

The volunteers who run the scheme, which takes place at St Peter’s Church on Monday evenings and St David’s on Thursday evenings, said funds were so low they would otherwise have struggled to provide the service before the year’s end.

This meant the annual festive lunch, which provides 50 people with a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings, was also at risk.

It came during a year when the hot meals service has been busier than ever, sometimes being attended by up to 60 people.

The response in Fleetwood has been truly amazing and kept Christmas going

But the desperate message was heeded by big-hearted individuals, groups and businesses in the town.

And thanks to the donations, the Mustard Seed Group’s valiant weekly efforts have now been saved until the end of the year – and beyond.

On Monday, 10 volunteers were able to serve their annual Christmas meal to people who were lonely, homeless or simply struggling to cope.

Fleetwood MP Cat Smith also attended the event.

There was soup, turkey dinner, gateau and cream, mince pies and tea and coffee. And Santa was even on hand to give everyone a present.

Volunteer Hilary Craig said: “The Christmas meal has been brilliant this year and we can’t thank people enough for their help over the last few weeks.

“The response in Fleetwood has been truly amazing and kept Christmas going.”